Community Development Department

Responsibilities:

  • Orderly development and maintenance of property, residences and businesses.
  • Reviews projects and building plans to ensure they comply with all current building codes, applicable laws and local zoning
  • Ensures compatibility of land use in the built environment and manages various grant programs.

Building & Safety Division

The Building & Safety Division, a cornerstone of our City's development, is committed to safeguarding the built environment. Our responsive, professional services not only facilitate development but also ensure that all construction in the City adheres to the highest safety standards. We advise on construction-related laws, codes and standards, local building ordinances, and the City's development process. By applying consistent procedures and processes, we review and approve plans and specifications, issue permits, make field inspections, and issue certificates of occupancy, assuring that these standards are met.

Code Compliance Division

The Code Compliance Division responds to citizen complaints and pro-actively identifies violations on public and private property. The basis of Code Compliance rests with property owners and tenants to act as good neighbors. Property owners have rights that protect them; however, the term "property rights" also implies that property owners have certain responsibilities. No property within the City may be used or maintained in a manner, which downgrades the value, use, enjoyment or safety of one’s own or surrounding property. Code Compliance activities protect the health and safety of the community and ensure the highest level of voluntary compliance.

Housing Division

The Housing Division manages state-funded grant programs which provide assistance to senior citizens and permanently disabled property owners and implements neighborhood based programs and services.

Planning Division

The Planning Division combines functions of Current and Advance planning to manage development within the framework established in the City's General Plan and Municipal Code.  Planning division oversight strives to achieve orderly and compatible development to create livable neighborhoods, support economic development, and sustain a high quality of life for Hemet's citizens.